Texas House Bill HB1198

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the filing of a degree plan by students at public junior colleges.

Impact

The implications of HB1198 on state laws primarily affect the Texas Education Code. By amending Section 51.9685, the bill reinforces the necessity for students to articulate their educational objectives early in their college journey. The intent is to help students make informed decisions about their courses and career paths, potentially leading to higher graduation rates and better educational outcomes. Moreover, this change places an emphasis on accountability, requiring students to take an active role in their academic progression.

Summary

House Bill 1198 proposes to mandate that students enrolled in associate or bachelor's degree programs at public junior colleges in Texas file a degree plan by a specified deadline. Specifically, students must submit their degree plan no later than the end of the second regular semester following the accumulation of 15 semester credit hours. This requirement aims to promote academic planning and guidance, ensuring that students stay on track towards completing their degrees efficiently.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB1198 appears to favor the concept of structured academic planning, as it aligns with ongoing efforts to improve student success rates in public junior colleges. Educators and administrators are likely to view the measure positively, citing benefits related to student guidance and institutional effectiveness. However, concerns may arise about the additional administrative burden placed on colleges to monitor and ensure compliance with this new requirement.

Contention

While the bill has received support for its aims to enhance educational outcomes, points of contention may include discussions حول the feasibility of implementation and the adequacy of resources provided to both students and institutions. Questions could be raised regarding how effectively colleges can assist students in creating appropriate degree plans while managing existing workloads and resources. Additionally, the timeline enforced by the bill may present challenges for students, especially those who enter college with varying degrees of preparedness or those who may change their academic focus mid-way through their studies.